Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A computing device comprising: at least one processor; a non-transitory computer-readable medium; and program instructions stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to: begin transmission of playback preference tracking information to one or more media services registered with a media playback system, wherein the media playback system includes at least two zone players that have been selected for inclusion in a zone scene comprising a predefined grouping of zone players that are to be configured for synchronous playback of media when the zone scene is invoked; detect that the zone scene has been invoked such that the at least two zone players are configured for synchronous playback of media; based on the detection that the zone scene has been invoked, suspend the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services; after suspending the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services, detect that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media; and after detecting that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media, resume the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services.
A computing device is configured to manage playback preference tracking in a media playback system that includes multiple zone players grouped into a zone scene for synchronous media playback. The system tracks user preferences by transmitting playback preference tracking information to registered media services. When a zone scene is invoked, the device detects the synchronous playback configuration and temporarily suspends the transmission of tracking information to the media services. Once the synchronous playback ends, the device resumes transmitting the tracking information. This ensures that preference tracking does not interfere with synchronized playback across multiple zone players. The system dynamically adjusts tracking based on the playback state, maintaining accurate user preference data while preserving synchronized media playback quality. The device includes a processor and non-transitory storage with executable instructions to perform these functions, ensuring seamless integration with media services and zone player configurations.
2. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the playback preference tracking information comprises information indicating at least one of (a) one or more media items from the one or more media services that have previously been played by the media playback system, (b) one or more favorite media items, (c) one or more saved playlists, (d) one or more followed artists, (e) one or more favorite radio stations, or (f) one or more media item ratings.
A computing device is configured to manage media playback preferences across multiple media services. The device tracks playback preference information, which includes details about media items previously played by a media playback system, favorite media items, saved playlists, followed artists, favorite radio stations, and media item ratings. This information is used to enhance the user experience by personalizing media recommendations and playback across different services. The system aggregates and organizes this data to provide a unified view of the user's preferences, allowing for seamless transitions between services while maintaining consistent playback settings and preferences. The device may also synchronize this preference data across multiple playback systems to ensure a cohesive experience regardless of the device or service being used. This approach addresses the challenge of managing fragmented media preferences across various platforms, providing users with a more integrated and personalized media consumption experience.
3. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to detect that the zone scene has been invoked comprise program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to receive an indication from a zone player in the zone scene that the zone scene has been invoked.
A computing device is configured to manage audio playback in a multi-room audio system, where multiple zone players can form a zone scene—a predefined group of players synchronized for coordinated playback. The device detects when a zone scene is invoked by receiving an indication directly from a zone player within the scene, confirming that the scene has been activated. This detection triggers the device to adjust playback settings, such as volume levels or audio sources, across all players in the scene to ensure synchronized playback. The system ensures seamless coordination by allowing any player in the scene to signal the activation, enabling flexible control from any device in the network. This approach improves user experience by maintaining consistent audio performance across multiple rooms without requiring centralized control, reducing latency and improving responsiveness. The solution addresses challenges in multi-room audio systems where delayed or inconsistent scene activation can disrupt playback synchronization.
4. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to detect that the zone scene has been invoked comprise program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to receive an input indicating a selection to invoke the zone scene.
A computing device is configured to manage and control a zone scene, which is a predefined set of settings for multiple smart devices within a specific area or zone of a smart home or building automation system. The device includes at least one processor and memory storing program instructions that, when executed, enable the device to detect when the zone scene is invoked. This detection is achieved by receiving an input, such as a user command or automated trigger, indicating a selection to activate the zone scene. Once invoked, the zone scene adjusts the operational states of the smart devices in the designated zone according to the predefined settings, which may include lighting levels, temperature adjustments, security configurations, or other device-specific parameters. The system ensures seamless coordination between the devices, allowing users to apply complex automation routines with a single command. This approach simplifies user interaction with smart home systems by abstracting the need to manually configure each device individually, enhancing convenience and efficiency in managing environmental conditions or security states across different zones.
5. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to detect that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media comprise program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to receive a request for a given one of the at least two zone players to play back media individually.
A computing device monitors and controls a multi-zone audio system where multiple zone players synchronize playback of media. The system detects when synchronized playback is disrupted, particularly when one or more zone players receive a request to play media individually, breaking the synchronized group. The device identifies this condition by processing playback commands or user requests directed to specific zone players, determining that the synchronized playback configuration is no longer active. This ensures the system can adapt to changes in playback mode, such as transitioning from synchronized multi-room audio to independent playback in one or more zones. The solution addresses the need for dynamic management of synchronized audio systems, allowing seamless transitions between synchronized and independent playback modes based on user interactions or system events. The computing device executes instructions to monitor playback states, detect deviations from synchronized playback, and adjust system behavior accordingly, ensuring consistent user experience and proper media delivery.
6. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the at least two zone players that are selected for inclusion in the zone scene comprise all zone players of the media playback system.
A computing device in a media playback system manages zone scenes, which are predefined configurations of audio playback settings for groups of zone players. The system includes multiple zone players that can be organized into different zones, each capable of playing audio content independently or in synchronization with others. The computing device allows users to create, modify, and activate zone scenes, which define which zone players are included in a scene and their respective playback settings, such as volume levels, equalizer settings, or playback states (e.g., paused or playing). The computing device selects at least two zone players for inclusion in a zone scene, and in some cases, the selection includes all zone players in the media playback system. This ensures that every zone player in the system is part of the scene, allowing synchronized or coordinated playback across all devices. The computing device may also store and retrieve zone scenes, enabling users to quickly switch between different playback configurations. The system may further include user interfaces for managing these scenes, such as mobile applications or web interfaces, allowing users to customize and control their audio playback experience. The technology addresses the need for flexible and efficient management of multi-zone audio systems, providing users with the ability to create and activate predefined playback scenarios with minimal manual intervention.
7. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the computing device comprises a controller device for the media playback system.
A computing device for controlling a media playback system includes a controller device that manages the playback of media content across multiple playback devices. The controller device is configured to receive user input commands, such as play, pause, skip, or volume adjustments, and distribute these commands to the appropriate playback devices in the system. The controller device also synchronizes media playback across the devices to ensure consistent audio or video output, accounting for network latency and device capabilities. Additionally, the controller device may monitor the status of each playback device, such as battery levels, connectivity, or playback errors, and adjust playback settings accordingly. The system may support various media formats and streaming protocols, allowing seamless integration with different types of playback devices, including speakers, displays, or smart home appliances. The controller device may also provide a user interface, either locally or remotely, for managing playback settings and device configurations. This system enhances user experience by providing centralized control over a distributed media playback environment, ensuring synchronized and high-quality media playback across multiple devices.
8. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the zone scene is automatically invoked according to a schedule.
A computing device is configured to manage and control lighting zones within a smart lighting system. The device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the device to define multiple lighting zones, each associated with a set of lighting devices. The device also stores zone scenes, where each scene defines a specific lighting configuration for a zone, including parameters such as brightness, color, and timing. The device is capable of automatically invoking a zone scene based on a predefined schedule, ensuring that lighting conditions are adjusted without manual intervention. This automation allows for energy efficiency, convenience, and personalized lighting experiences tailored to user preferences or environmental conditions. The system may also include user interfaces for creating, modifying, or deleting zone scenes and schedules, enabling customization of lighting behaviors. The device may further integrate with external systems, such as security or environmental sensors, to enhance functionality and adaptability. The scheduled invocation of zone scenes ensures consistent and predictable lighting control, reducing the need for manual adjustments and improving user experience.
9. A non-transitory computer-readable medium; and program instructions stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium that are executable by at least one processor such that a computing device is configured to: begin transmission of playback preference tracking information to one or more media services registered with a media playback system, wherein the media playback system includes at least two zone players that have been selected for inclusion in a zone scene comprising a predefined grouping of zone players that are to be configured for synchronous playback of media when the zone scene is invoked; detect that the zone scene has been invoked such that the at least two zone players are configured for synchronous playback of media; based on the detection that the zone scene has been invoked, suspend the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services; after suspending the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services, detect that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media; and after detecting that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media, resume the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services.
This invention relates to media playback systems with synchronized playback features. The problem addressed is the unnecessary transmission of playback preference tracking information during synchronized playback, which can lead to redundant data collection and potential privacy concerns. The system includes a media playback system with at least two zone players grouped into a zone scene for synchronous playback. When the zone scene is invoked, the system begins transmitting playback preference tracking data to registered media services. Upon detecting the zone scene activation, the system suspends this transmission to avoid redundant tracking. Once the synchronized playback ends, the system resumes transmitting the tracking data. The invention ensures efficient data handling by pausing unnecessary tracking during synchronized playback, reducing data overhead and improving user privacy. The system dynamically adjusts tracking based on playback configuration changes, ensuring seamless operation without disrupting user experience. The solution is implemented via program instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, executed by a processor to control the tracking suspension and resumption.
10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9 , wherein the playback preference tracking information comprises information indicating at least one of (a) one or more media items from the one or more media services that have previously been played by the media playback system, (b) one or more favorite media items, (c) one or more saved playlists, (d) one or more followed artists, (e) one or more favorite radio stations, or (f) one or more media item ratings.
This invention relates to a computer-readable medium storing instructions for a media playback system that tracks and utilizes user playback preferences across multiple media services. The system collects and stores playback preference tracking information, which includes data such as previously played media items, favorite media items, saved playlists, followed artists, favorite radio stations, and media item ratings. This information is used to enhance the user experience by personalizing media playback based on historical and preferred selections. The system integrates with multiple media services to aggregate and analyze user preferences, allowing for seamless transitions between different services while maintaining a consistent playback experience. The invention aims to solve the problem of fragmented user preferences across disparate media platforms by centralizing and leveraging this data to improve content recommendations and playback continuity. The system dynamically adjusts playback based on the tracked preferences, ensuring that the user's favorite media items, artists, and stations are prioritized. This approach enhances user satisfaction by providing a more personalized and cohesive media playback experience.
11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9 , wherein the program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to detect that the zone scene has been invoked comprise program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to receive an indication from a zone player in the zone scene that the zone scene has been invoked.
A system for managing audio playback in a multi-room audio environment involves detecting when a predefined zone scene is activated. The system includes a computing device with at least one processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions. The instructions, when executed, configure the computing device to detect that a zone scene has been invoked by receiving an indication from a zone player within the zone scene. The zone scene defines a specific grouping of zone players and their respective audio settings, such as volume levels or playback states. The system ensures synchronized audio playback across the grouped zone players upon activation of the zone scene. The computing device may further adjust playback parameters, such as volume or audio source, based on the zone scene configuration. This approach simplifies user interaction by allowing predefined audio setups to be activated with minimal input, enhancing convenience in multi-room audio systems. The system may also include additional features, such as dynamic adjustments to playback based on user preferences or environmental conditions, to provide a seamless listening experience.
12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9 , wherein the program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to detect that the zone scene has been invoked comprise program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to receive an input indicating a selection to invoke the zone scene.
A system for managing zone scenes in a smart home environment detects when a user selects a predefined zone scene, which configures multiple smart devices in a coordinated manner. The system includes a computing device with at least one processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions. When executed, these instructions enable the computing device to receive an input indicating a user's selection to invoke a zone scene. The zone scene defines a specific configuration for one or more smart devices, such as lighting, thermostats, or security systems, within a designated area or "zone" of the home. Upon detection of the selection, the system activates the predefined settings for the devices in that zone, automating the adjustment of environmental conditions or device states. This allows users to quickly apply a desired setup, such as "Movie Night" or "Good Morning," without manually adjusting each device individually. The system may also include additional features, such as scheduling the invocation of zone scenes or triggering them based on external conditions like time of day or sensor data. The invention improves user convenience and efficiency in managing smart home environments by simplifying the control of multiple devices through predefined, customizable scenes.
13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9 , wherein the program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to detect that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media comprise program instructions that are executable by the at least one processor such that the computing device is configured to receive a request for a given one of the at least two zone players to play back media individually.
A system for managing synchronized media playback across multiple zone players detects when synchronization is disrupted. The system monitors a network of zone players configured to play media in sync. If a request is received for one of the zone players to play media individually, the system identifies that the synchronized playback configuration has been altered. This detection allows the system to adjust playback settings or notify users of the change. The system ensures that media playback remains coordinated unless explicitly modified, preventing unintended desynchronization. The solution addresses the challenge of maintaining synchronized playback in multi-zone audio systems, where individual zone adjustments can disrupt synchronization. The system dynamically responds to such changes to maintain user control while preserving playback coordination.
14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9 , wherein the computing device comprises a controller device for the media playback system.
A media playback system controller device is disclosed that manages playback of media content across multiple playback devices. The system includes a computing device configured to receive media content from a media source, process the media content for playback, and distribute the processed media content to one or more playback devices. The computing device also synchronizes playback timing across the playback devices to ensure coordinated playback. Additionally, the system may adjust playback parameters, such as volume or equalization settings, based on user preferences or environmental conditions. The controller device may further handle user input commands, such as play, pause, skip, or volume adjustments, and relay these commands to the playback devices. The system may also support multi-room or multi-zone playback, where different playback devices can play different media content simultaneously or synchronized playback of the same content. The controller device may also monitor the status of the playback devices, such as battery levels or connectivity, and provide feedback to the user. The system may include wireless communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, to facilitate communication between the controller device and the playback devices. The controller device may also store playback history or user preferences for personalized playback experiences. The system may further include error handling mechanisms to manage disruptions in playback, such as network issues or device failures. The controller device may also support firmware updates for the playback devices to ensure compatibility and performance. The system may also integrate with external services, such as streaming platforms or voice assistants, to enhance functionality. The controller device m
15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9 , wherein the zone scene is automatically invoked according to a schedule.
A system and method for automated zone scene invocation in smart home environments addresses the challenge of manually controlling multiple smart devices in different zones of a home or building. The invention provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, enable a smart home controller to automatically trigger predefined zone scenes based on a schedule. A zone scene is a set of predefined device states or actions for a specific area, such as adjusting lighting, temperature, or appliance settings. The system includes a scheduling module that defines and manages time-based triggers for invoking these scenes, ensuring seamless automation without user intervention. The invention also includes a device communication module to execute the scene commands across compatible smart devices, such as lights, thermostats, or security systems. The scheduling feature allows users to predefine recurring or one-time events, optimizing energy efficiency, convenience, and security. The system may also integrate with user preferences, environmental sensors, or external data sources to refine scene execution. This automation reduces manual effort and enhances the overall smart home experience by ensuring consistent and timely device control.
16. A method comprising: beginning, by a computing device, transmission of playback preference tracking information to one or more media services registered with a media playback system, wherein the media playback system includes at least two zone players that have been selected for inclusion in a zone scene comprising a predefined grouping of zone players that are to be configured for synchronous playback of media when the zone scene is invoked; detecting, by the computing device, that the zone scene has been invoked such that the at least two zone players are configured for synchronous playback of media; based on the detection that the zone scene has been invoked, suspending, by the computing device, the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services; after suspending the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services, detecting, by the computing device, that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media; and after detecting that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media, resuming, by the computing device, the transmission of the playback preference tracking information to the one or more media services.
This invention relates to a method for managing playback preference tracking in a multi-zone media playback system. The system includes at least two zone players grouped into a zone scene, which is a predefined configuration for synchronous media playback across the selected players. The method involves transmitting playback preference tracking information to one or more registered media services while the zone players are not in a synchronized playback state. When the zone scene is invoked, the system detects the activation and suspends the transmission of playback preference tracking data to the media services. This suspension continues while the zone players remain in synchronous playback mode. Once the synchronized playback ends, the system resumes transmitting the playback preference tracking information to the media services. This approach ensures that media service tracking is temporarily disabled during synchronized playback, preventing inaccurate or redundant tracking data from being sent while multiple zone players are playing the same content simultaneously. The method improves efficiency and accuracy in media preference tracking by dynamically adjusting data transmission based on the playback state of the zone players.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the playback preference tracking information comprises information indicating at least one of (a) one or more media items from the one or more media services that have previously been played by the media playback system, (b) one or more favorite media items, (c) one or more saved playlists, (d) one or more followed artists, (e) one or more favorite radio stations, or (f) one or more media item ratings.
A media playback system tracks user preferences across multiple media services to enhance playback experiences. The system collects and stores playback preference tracking information, which includes details about media items previously played by the system, favorite media items, saved playlists, followed artists, favorite radio stations, and media item ratings. This information is used to personalize media playback, such as selecting media items for playback based on the user's historical interactions and preferences. The system may also integrate with various media services to gather and update this preference data, ensuring that the playback experience aligns with the user's tastes and habits. By maintaining a comprehensive record of user preferences, the system can provide more relevant and enjoyable media recommendations and playback sequences. This approach improves user satisfaction by tailoring media playback to individual preferences and reducing the need for manual selection. The system may further analyze the preference data to identify trends or patterns, which can be used to refine recommendations or suggest new media items that align with the user's interests.
18. The method of claim 16 , wherein detecting, by the computing device, that the zone scene has been invoked comprises receiving, by the computing device, an indication from a zone player in the zone scene that the zone scene has been invoked.
A method for managing audio playback in a multi-room audio system involves detecting the invocation of a predefined zone scene, which is a configuration of audio playback settings across multiple audio devices (zone players) in a networked environment. The method includes receiving an indication from a zone player within the zone scene that the scene has been activated. This indication triggers the computing device to adjust playback settings, such as volume levels, equalization, or playback sources, across the zone players in the scene. The method ensures synchronized and coordinated audio playback according to the predefined scene settings, enhancing user experience by simplifying multi-room audio management. The system may also include additional features, such as dynamically adjusting playback based on user preferences or environmental conditions, and providing feedback to confirm scene activation. The method is particularly useful in smart home environments where users frequently switch between different audio configurations for different activities, such as parties, relaxation, or focused listening.
19. The method of claim 16 , wherein detecting, by the computing device, that the zone scene has been invoked comprises receiving, by the computing device, an input indicating a selection to invoke the zone scene.
A system and method for managing zone scenes in a smart home environment addresses the challenge of efficiently controlling multiple smart devices in predefined configurations. The technology involves a computing device that detects the invocation of a zone scene, which is a predefined set of device states for a specific area or group of devices. The computing device receives an input, such as a user selection, to activate the zone scene. Once invoked, the system adjusts the states of the associated smart devices according to the predefined configuration. This may include turning lights on or off, adjusting thermostat settings, or controlling other smart home devices. The method ensures that the zone scene is executed accurately and reliably, enhancing user convenience and automation in smart home environments. The system may also include additional features such as confirming the successful execution of the zone scene or providing feedback to the user. This approach simplifies the management of multiple devices, allowing users to quickly apply complex settings with a single command.
20. The method of claim 16 , wherein detecting, by the computing device, that the at least two zone players are no longer configured for synchronous playback of media comprises receiving, by the computing device, a request for a given one of the at least two zone players to play back media individually.
A system for managing synchronized media playback across multiple audio devices detects when synchronization is no longer needed. The system monitors a network of zone players, which are audio playback devices capable of playing media in sync with each other. If a user requests one of the zone players to play media independently, the system identifies that the synchronized playback configuration is no longer required. The system then adjusts the playback settings to allow the selected zone player to operate independently while the remaining zone players continue synchronized playback. This ensures seamless transitions between synchronized and independent playback modes without manual intervention. The system may also track user preferences, playback history, or network conditions to optimize media delivery and synchronization. The solution addresses the challenge of maintaining synchronized playback while allowing flexible, user-driven adjustments to playback configurations.
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December 22, 2020
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